According to the 2021 Remodeling Cost vs. Value Report, the cost of a kitchen remodel averages between $27,000 and $152,000 – a huge difference. Depending on the type of remodel you need and the elements you choose, costs vary widely. Because there is such a huge difference in a midrange kitchen remodel and a total remodel of a high-end kitchen, we wanted to help you understand some specifics about the kitchen remodeling budget.
Remodeling vs. Renovating
Although the term “kitchen remodel” is generally used to encompass both, they are different. Remodeling (keeping the same footprint for your kitchen) requires a lower budget versus gutting the space and moving elements in your kitchen around, which is a renovation. Chances are good that you’re going to need an electrician and plumber no matter what you’re doing; however, the work and cost increases dramatically when you’re relocating appliances or taking down walls.
Cabinets
The cabinets are almost always the largest chunk of any kitchen remodeling budget. Typically, they take between 30 and 35 percent of the total budget. Of course, this can vary depending on the type of cabinets you choose and if you opt for shelving, which can lower the budget. Although stock cabinets are the least expensive, there’s a good reason. They don’t offer the options, sizes or quality of a custom or semi-custom cabinet. If you are over-budget, cabinets can be one way to cut back; however, it’s not a great investment to choose stock cabinets.
Countertops
One of the differences between a mid-range and upscale remodel is the countertop material. Although laminate and solid-surface countertops are still common, they’re not used in many kitchen remodels today. The good thing about granite is that there are so many options; most homeowners can find one that fits into their kitchen remodeling budget. The cost of quartz is about the same as average-priced granite, while marble is more. Countertops should only take up about 10 percent of your total kitchen remodeling budget.
Appliances
Appliances are one way you can find wiggle room in your budget. Just make sure not to sacrifice energy efficiency when you choose a different appliance or appliance package. Sometimes cutting a few hundred dollars from your budget per appliance is as simple as choosing a different finish. Although smart appliances are all the rage right now, ask yourself if you’ll really use their features. If not, don’t worry about the wi-fi stove or the refrigerator with the camera inside. Those both add hundreds to each appliance.
Don’t Forget the Rest of the Elements
Although cabinets, countertops and appliances are the major elements of any kitchen remodel, don’t forget that there are other expenses. Here are the remaining ones you’ll need to budget for:
- Lighting
- Flooring (unless you’re keeping the footprint of your kitchen)
- Cabinet hardware
- Faucets
- Labor
And don’t forget about an emergency fund for your kitchen remodel. Things change during the course of a remodel. A manufacture can raise its prices … appliances go out of stock. Having a portion of your total budget set aside for these things can help you avoid compromising on another element you love.
Are You Ready to Get Started?
Call G.M. Roth Design Remodeling today at (603) 880-3761 for your free virtual, in-home or showroom consultation. We are conveniently located in Nashua and service the communities in the southern part of our state as well as those in northern Massachusetts. We can help you set a kitchen remodeling budget or work within the budget you have already planned.
